The recurrent and exhausting infliction of injuries has proven to be a big hurdle for Barcelona this season.
Key players have had to spend time rehabilitating on the sidelines, as the absence of key players has previously thrown a shadow over the Catalans’ domestic goals
Robert Lewandowski was one of the numerous casualties, with the Polish star being carried off during Barcelona’s Champions League match against FC Porto.
The injury saw Lewandowski miss Barcelona’s next three games. An appearance off the bench in the recently played Clasico finally allowed him to regain some match fitness.
Starting XI place inbound
Now, according to SPORT (h/t FCB World), Lewandowski is 100% ready and will be a starter against Real Sociedad this coming Saturday.
While the veteran striker gained some play time towards the end of the clash against Real Madrid, he was unable to feature in the starting XI due to the risk of a relapse.
Now that he is declared fully fit, a starting position versus La Real is anticipated.
Lewandowski has enjoyed a solid season thus far, having recorded ten goals and assists with Barcelona in all competitions thus far.
His presence as the focal number 9 has been key for Barcelona, especially with the inclusion of Joao Felix allowing the Pole to be situated higher up the field, where he is most influential.
Following Barça’s first defeat of the season, the game against Real Sociedad holds innate weight for Xavi, and therefore having his main striker at his disposal induces optimism ahead of the big clash.